Is it safe to visit and Stay in Hebron, Palestine? When talking about security it is important too, first of all, ask ourselves what are we really afraid of? Where does this fear come from? Is the source of our fear a reliable one? Most likely it has been built up by other people’s perception of a situation they know little about.

A perception in turn built by the media, and be forewarned, the media exaggerates, drama and tragedy sell, which is why most things we see in the news and online media outlets tend to be a distorted view of reality. If your view on security is based from other people’s experiences, people that have been in this area you are about to visit, then it might be a bit more trustful, but remember that in reality, they are personal experiences, very unlikely to repeat themselves.

You can see a recent video about is it safe to visit Palestine in?  with some of our current volunteer thoughts. But after talking extensively to volunteers in Palestine and the staff at the Excellence Center, here are some things to watch out for while in Hebron. You might or might not find this surprising, but really these are the safety issues internationals face while in Palestine.

Friday clashes

You have most likely heard of the demonstration around the old city. Every Friday after prayer at the downtown mosques, people will demonstrate around the H2 checkpoints. Often these demonstrations turn into clashes between youth throwing stones and Israeli soldiers disproportionately responding with tear gas or rubber bullets.

These are a common occurrence to avoid, even if you are curious, please stay away from these events, they turn violent quickly and you do not want to become an innocent injured bystander. As a general rule, we recommend staying away from large crowds of people.

Stones

In and around Hebron two (H2)  it can also be common to have children and youth throw stones towards foreigners, this doesn’t happen often as in reality they aim to soldiers or settlers. But on some very rare occasions, the kids might confuse an international and act aggressively. Stay friendly and use the little Arabic you know to identify yourself.

Weddings are also a common occurrence on Fridays and they usually include a large noisy demonstration of euphoria, with honking and screeching tires, and sometimes even fireworks. Don’t be scared, this is a regular joyful occasion and most likely not a safety concern in Palestine, but the noise can startle people.

Construction sites

We recommend to walk away and around construction sites, they are also dangerous, there is no protection for workers or warning signage for those who walk by, so simply cross the street or walk around it. We have seen debris fall off buildings very close to pedestrians and driving cars, so better safe than sorry in this respect.

Safety for women to visit and stay in Palestine 

Most women volunteers have shared that they have never felt insecure in Hebron, in fact, quite the opposite. If compared to any other place in the world, some volunteers share, this area might be the safest for women. Men are for the most part very respectful and friendly, everyone wants to help and welcome you. Just keep in mind that it is a very conservative City, so dress accordingly.

There are probably other issues that we have forgotten to mention, but it’s most likely because they are not important, for example, theft, which is pretty much nonexistent in Palestine. People leave their bags and things laying around at the Excellence center and nothing has ever been lost. But remember, when it comes to your own personal safety it is extremely important to be mindful and aware of your surroundings.

Do question the source of your fears, it is only normal to be influenced by the media and other people’s perceptions, but the reality on the ground is normally very different. You are brave for allowing yourself to experience this first hand and have really nothing to fear.

Overall

In conclusion, it is really safe to visit and stay Palestine in Palestine and you can enjoy and experience the daily life of Palestinians. However, it is like in each place in the world, you have to take some safety procedures.